And we have some more fluff and some issues with a certain character that always cause problems! :D
CHAPTER THIRTEEN: THE PARTY
Several months have passed, and all who knew that Artham was planning to propose kept it a secret from Arundelle. Artham was planning to ask her at her birthday party, and he felt more nervous at every passing day.
Finally, the party day arrived, and Ari was abuzz with excitement.
“I invited a few friends from the Hollows. Nia, Olumphia, Jodi, Rudric, and Biggin. Do you think that’s enough?” Ari asked Artham one day as the two were sitting at Castle Rock.
“It’s up to you, Ari. It’s your party.”
“We didn’t even do anything for yours.”
“I’m fine with that. The less fuss for me, the better.”
“You’ve always been such an introvert.”
“And what does that make you?”
“An extrovert, of course.”
“Mmhmm.”
“I am. I balance you out.”
How does— “
“Ari!” Emmy interrupted, rushing up. “The boats arrived and everything’s ruined! Nibbick Bunge is on board!”
“What?!” Ari cried, jumping up, Artham following her example.
“He just arrived! As well as everyone else! They all look miserable!”
Ari and Artham exchanged a worried glance, before Emmy said, “Come on!” and they followed her down the rock and to the docks. There was Esben, trying to be polite, but with Nibbick critiquing everything, from Esben’s hair to the buttons on his shoes, he was having a rather hard time of it.
Arundelle had no clue how to ask Nibbick what he was doing there, so Artham took over.
“What are you doing here, Nibbick?”
At Artham’s voice, Nibbick cringed. He still had a fear of Artham, deep down, and he knew he was only there to cause mischief.
“Oh, because I thought I should give Ari a present for her birthday! Sixteen is a big one, you know.”
Artham’s brows went up, but he said nothing, only a rather dry greeting to everyone else there, since Nibbick’s very presence left a foul taste in his mouth.
When the guests arrived at the castle, Esben wasted no time in showing them around, but Artham noticed Nibbick sneak off at some point, though he didn’t have the opportunity to follow, since Ari had his arm in her grasp.
The day soon passed, and evening arrived. Artham was in his room, getting together his presents for Arundelle. He picked a lovely book for her that she had been wanting by the great literary expert, S. C. Ewis. Also, he got her a purple, her favorite color, rose. And of course there was the ring, but that was not to be presented till later.
No one outside the castle walls knew of the party, because, frankly, it was none of their business. But the servants did all that they could to make Ari’s party pleasant, and for the most part it was, save Nibbick Bunge’s presence. Finally, after some games and food, the time for presents came. Artham’s heart was fairly beating out of his chest. Please say yes, he thought to himself, just as the first gift was opened. Nia was proud to give Ari a pretty dress and a lovely little journal. Jodi presented some perfume. Biggin got her a dog collar for Prince, being a bit awkward when he gave it (he was awkward around all girls but Jodi).
Finally, Nibbick gave his gift, and Artham’s heart was crushed. It was the same book Artham had and a bouquet of beautiful purple roses. And to make matters worse, Ari seemed so grateful, and that’s she really liked it.
Artham didn’t say anything, but when the attention turned towards him, he kept his presents for Arundelle in his coat.
“Happy birthday, Ari,” he said, trying to sound kind. Ari smiled. “Thank you, Artham.”
He bowed slightly, and then slipped out, Ari watching him. The night continued, but far less pleasantly.
Artham was upset. Now he knew. Nibbick snuck around, found what Artham was giving her, and bought it that day. Artham plopped down on a bench outside, watching the moon. Artham sighed. But he jumped when he heard soft footsteps. He turned his head and saw Arundelle.
“Artham, are you alright?”
“Uh, yeah.”
Ari sat down next to him, making Artham blush. Well, now you have to talk to her! Maker help me.
Oh boy...this went well...didn't it?
Also, S. C. Ewis is a total play on C. S. Lewis 😏
Nibbick is acting a lot like an annoying sibling.
Yes, I noticed instantly with the SC Ewis. (You could have gone with 'Jack', but that might be a bit obscure)
Also that prayer at the end is sooo valid